Development of Neonatal Flow Sensor for Neonatal Resuscitation

Globally, an estimated 2.4 million newborns died in the first month of life in 2019. With quality care at birth and treat immediately after birth millions of newborn deaths are expected to be averted. In 2019, most neonatal deaths were due to preterm birth and intrapartum related complications (birth asphyxia, lack of respiration at birth). For these newborns, healthcare providers provide positive pressure ventilation. However, the lungs of newborns are stiff and small, and proper ventilation can be difficult to achieve. Flow sensors can improve the technique because they can convey ventilation parameters. In this study, we have developed a flow sensor that can be used for neonatal resuscitation. The results showed that the sensor had low flow resistance (0.18kPa@10L/min), the measurement accuracy at low flow rates was higher than commercially available flow sensors, was robust to noise when intubation tube was connected, and did not increase the dead space. In the future, we will examine display and usability, and develop devices useful for resuscitation of newborns.